Somerville Borough Council Approves Funding for Capital Projects and Resignation of Fire Chief
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Meeting Type:
City Council
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Meeting Date:
04/01/2024
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Recording Published:
04/01/2024
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Duration:
22 Minutes
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State:
New Jersey
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County:
Somerset County
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Towns:
Somerville
- Meeting Overview:
In a recent session, Somerville Borough Council approved an ordinance providing funding for various capital purposes, appropriating $2,132,000 for such projects. This decision will impact the borough’s infrastructure and development.
The ordinance, numbered 2731, was discussed in detail, focusing on improvements to several streets including Lincoln Avenue, Cleveland Street, Altamont, and the Say Fry School. The council addressed concerns about the proportion of grant funding covering the costs, noting that $480,000 in grants were received, which usually covers about a quarter of the total expense. The discussion clarified that the grants would be used for milling, paving, and in some cases, reconstruction of the roadways, with the possibility of additional funding from PSE&G if those streets were affected by their work.
In another key decision, the council accepted the resignation of Fire Chief Dave Fone Sr., effective retroactively to the end of business on March 20, 2024. The council expressed gratitude for Chief Fone’s long service and dedication to the borough.
The meeting also addressed the purchase of a professional shallow water aluminum boat for the fire department from Hillsboro Volunteer Fire Company No. 3, at the cost of $20,000. This acquisition raised questions about the necessity of another boat, considering a previous boat purchase and the current fleet, which includes a boat at the rescue squad. Council members discussed the condition of the newly acquired boat, the training for its deployment, and the collaboration with other emergency services for swift water rescue operations. Despite some concerns, the purchase was approved, with one council member voting against it.
The council further approved a range of consent resolutions, including the resignation of an employee, approval of fire department applications, vendor contract awards, and a shared services agreement for Chief Financial Officer services. A notable resolution supported the New Jersey Senate Bill 2865, establishing the Voter Convenience Act. Additionally, the council authorized the return of escrow funds and approved the hiring of new personnel.
Brian Gallagher
City Council Officials:
Roger Vroom, Theresa Bonner, Glen Denys, Thompson Mitchell, RanD Pitts, Gina Stravic
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Meeting Type:
City Council
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Committee:
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Meeting Date:
04/01/2024
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Recording Published:
04/01/2024
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Duration:
22 Minutes
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Notability Score:
Routine
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State:
New Jersey
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County:
Somerset County
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Towns:
Somerville
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